Fairbanks, AK – Much of Alaska will see a sharp swing in temperatures this week, with a warm start giving way to a significant arctic cooldown beginning Thursday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Fairbanks.
According to NWS forecasters, a pair of lows moving north into Alaska will bring temperatures above seasonal averages through the first half of the week. Many Interior communities — including Fairbanks, Delta Junction, Denali Park, and Tok — are expected to see highs in the teens, 20s, and even 30s through Wednesday. Some of the warmest readings appear Tuesday and Wednesday, with Denali Park forecast to reach the mid-30s.
However, conditions will shift quickly as an arctic air mass pushes south late in the week. Forecast graphics from NWS show a steep drop in minimum temperatures beginning Thursday night into Friday. Areas such as Arctic Village, Bettles, Prudhoe Bay, and Utqiaġvik are forecast to plunge into the teens and 20s below zero, with some locations dropping even further by early Saturday.
Fairbanks and nearby communities are also expected to feel the blast of cold air, with Thursday night lows forecast near -5°F and potentially colder on Friday. Northern communities including Point Hope, Wainwright, and Koyukuk will see similar declines.
Forecasters say the temperature shift will be widespread, affecting the Interior, Arctic Coast, and western Alaska. Residents should be prepared for rapidly changing road and travel conditions once the arctic air arrives late in the week.
NWS will issue additional updates as the colder pattern develops.
